May 2017
By Michael Brown askdrbrown.org I am not writing this column to throw stones or condemn. Rather, I am writing this column to help us learn some important lessons, because sin’s pain is always greater than sin’s pleasure. Whatever rewards sin promises you, whatever pleasure it gives you, whatever thrill or excitement you experience because of sinful behavior, one thing is certain: In the end, it is never worth it. Dr. Robert Bentley, who was forced to step down as the governor of Alabama after an embarrassing sex scandal, has learned this the hard way. What Bentley’s Actions Cost Just think. Robert Bentley is a medical
Be IntentionalDave Kugelman
Page 9
doctor, representing years of hard work and dedication. And he rose to one of the most powerful positions in America, one of just 50 state governors. Robert Bentley professed Christianity and rose to one of the most powerful positions in America. Now he is disgraced and mocked. Now he is disgraced and mocked, accepting a deal to avoid jail time. As a result, he can never run for public office again. He lost his retirement benefits. And he must do 100 hours of community service as a doctor. All for what? For a sexual fling? For a romantic tryst? Yet he was not the only one affected by his actions. There was his sexual partner (and political adviser), Rebekah Caldwell
Caught Serving! Good Friday Cross Walk
Page 10
Mason. There was his wife and family. There was his political party. And there was the whole state of Alabama. As Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey said when she was sworn in as the new governor, “Today is a dark day in Alabama, but also it’s one of opportunity. I ask for your help and your patience as together we steady the ship and improve Alabama’s image.” A Christian Leader Falls The governor’s actions also brought reproach on the Church and the name of the Lord. As The New York Times announced, “For Alabama Christians, Governor Bentley’s Downfall Is a Bitter Blow.” Alan Blinder gives the relevant background:
Indian Valley Outpost Resort
Page 12
As governor, Robert Bentley would quote the Bible before the Alabama Legislature and say that God had elevated him to the State Capitol. In his dermatology practice, in the city where he was a Baptist deacon, he sometimes witnessed to patients. And when he was a first-time candidate for statewide office, his campaign headquarters were often filled with volunteers from local churches. Yet this upstanding, trusted, Christian leader committed adultery against his wife, and he did so repeatedly. How can this be? Again, my purpose here is not to condemn. My purpose is to warn — and to warn loudly and clearly.
Continue on page 15 1040 Lincoln Rd., Suite A, #124 Yuba City, CA 95991 530-933-1385 editor@ambassadornewspaper.com
The Ambassador
1